Solid State Logic is evolving its System T platform to support flexible, software-defined workflows, deploying virtualised processing across on-premises servers and cloud infrastructure for the broadcast industry. According to SSL Broadcast Product Manager Berny Carpenter, the company is previewing enhancements to its Virtual Tempest Engine at IBC to align with the EBU’s Dynamic Media Facility project, providing broadcasters with scalable audio processing that reduces upfront hardware costs.
Software-Defined Virtual Tempest Engine and MXL Integration
SSL’s Virtual Tempest Engine handles up to 256 processing paths and supports all immersive audio formats, running on standard commercial off-the-shelf servers or public cloud infrastructure. According to Carpenter, the technology allows broadcasters to access a shared server stack hosting all necessary production software. The EBU Dynamic Media Facility project and Media eXchange Layer development aim to reduce computing requirements by enabling containerized software functions from multiple vendors to share memory for video, audio, and metadata transfer on a single server. SSL is demonstrating this automated deployment functionality alongside Techex and its cloud-native TX Darwin platform.
Did you know? System T’s virtualized controller options run on standard PCs, compact desktop tiles, or top-of-the-range S500 consoles, allowing operators to control processing remotely from anywhere.
Compact µVTE Brings Scalable Virtual Production
As part of the same EBU-aligned development strategy, SSL is introducing the compact µVTE to handle versatile, temporary, or event-based productions. Launched originally at NAB, the µVTE delivers 96 virtualised processing paths while retaining the core features of the broader System T ecosystem. It offers flexible licensing options designed to lower the entry point for broadcasters adopting virtualized production environments.
Net I/O ST 2110 Bridge Delivers High-Capacity Conversion
SSL is also debuting the Net I/O ST 2110 Bridge at IBC, providing a high-capacity standalone converter in a 1RU chassis. According to Carpenter, the unit supports up to 512 channels of conversion with NMOS compatibility to integrate with any Dante or ST 2110 audio network. Built-in optional sample-rate conversion allows both networks to clock independently when connected to separate systems, vendors, or facilities.
| Hardware Product | Key Capacity / Feature | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Tempest Engine (VTE) | Up to 256 processing paths | On-premises, cloud, or hybrid workflows |
| µVTE | 96 virtualised processing paths | Temporary, variable, or event-based productions |
| Net I/O ST 2110 Bridge | 512 channels in 1RU chassis | ST 2110 and Dante conversion |
Hardware Consoles and Portable Production Tools
Alongside its virtual solutions, SSL is exhibiting physical control surfaces including the lightweight S500m console, equipped with redundant TE2 Tempest Engines and native ST 2110 and Dante connectivity for outside broadcast applications. Visitors can also test a 32-fader S400 control surface and the ultra-portable TCA Tour. The TCA Tour features a 16-fader control frame, onboard I/O, a built-in network switch, and touchscreen mounts running the Tempest Control App connected to a TE1 DSP engine and an MPL 16-8 stagebox.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the processing capacity of SSL’s Virtual Tempest Engine?
The Virtual Tempest Engine handles up to 256 processing paths and supports all immersive audio formats across on-premises servers and cloud infrastructure.
What does the Net I/O ST 2110 Bridge do?
It is a standalone ST 2110 and Dante converter providing up to 512 channels of conversion in a 1RU chassis with independent clocking capabilities.
Where can visitors see these products demonstrated?
Solid State Logic is hosting live demonstrations of its System T ecosystem and hardware ranges at IBC in Hall 8, stand 8.B45.
Explore more broadcast technology insights or book an appointment with an SSL broadcast expert to schedule a live demonstration at the upcoming event.